While the summer hanging baskets in the village were at their prime, Lyn Sutherland was on another mission, planning Chorleywood winter colour.
Over a year ago Lyn had the brainwave to launch Chorleywood in Bloom, a joint project between the Parish Council, CW Horticultural Society and CW Residents’ Association.
“ I knew there was money in the Parish Council pot for hanging baskets and planters and realised it wasn’t enough to employ a contractor to do the job. I had the idea of a few Chorleywood groups pulling together and getting the businesses on board. By working with The Parish Council they are able buy the plants and save on VAT and we benefit from the muscle and good will of the rangers! As well as our close team of volunteers we had the support of several sponsors. There was so much camaraderie and the shopkeepers helped each other out. Poores would water The Hair Studio basket in Lower Road on Angie’s day off. Stratton Bakery did the same for Vanity Fair on a Monday. Everybody had their own system going although there was a bit of banter when Chorleywood Sports won the prize and neighbours claimed to have watered the basket once or twice!
Chorleywood Station had its own crew.. Mark the Station Master dug out station troughs and planted them up. When he was on holiday CW Horticultural Society members chipped in to help.”
Winter baskets and planters should be as prolific as the summer ones. Expect to see Skimmia, Polyanthus, Bellis, Cyclamen surrounded by Pansies and Violas and Eunonymus – spindle tree, in the middle. All are underplanted with mini daffs and crocuses ready for spring.
“David Brothers Nursery at Burnham were fantastic value for plants and have been very helpful as have Amersham Council. We have 58 winter baskets in the village – including 4 at the Memorial Hall, and 4 at the station plus 7 planters”
So winter in Chorleywood looks set to be colourful this year!
“Why shouldn’t we have a nice looking village?” adds Lyn
Why not indeed.
Chorleywood in Bloom is sponsored by CW Residents’ Association,CW Horticultural Society, Friends of Chorleywood Common, Sewell and